An ethnographic study of an online, mutual-aid health community: group dynamics, roles, and relationships
Pages 556 - 557
Abstract
The research project will examine a fairly well studied, long established, and thriving online health bulletin board through a multi level, in-depth analysis. Ethnographic research methods will be used in combination with social network analysis and an examination of issues related to usability. The purpose of the research is to document the role the online community plays in the lives of its members; define the patterns of interaction within the group; compare group dynamics in the online community to those in face to face mutual aid groups, and examine the impact of usability issues on group process.
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Forsyth, D., Group Dynamics (Third Edition). Wadsworth Publishing Company, Belmont, CA 1999.
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Jones, S. Doing Internet Research: Critical Issues and Methods for Examining the Net. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, 1999.
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Rainie, L., and D. Packel, 'More online, doing more.' Washington, DC: Pew Internet & American Life Project, (2001).
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Rice, R. E., 'The Internet and Health Communication: A Framework of Experiences.' In R. E. Rice and J. E. Katz (Eds.), The Internet and Health Communication: Experiences and Expectations. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, (2001): 5--46.
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Published: 20 April 2002
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